Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan Says Invitation to Senate President for Kogi Projects Was Procedural, Not Personal

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan Says Invitation to Senate President for Kogi Projects Was Procedural, Not Personal

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has clarified that her invitation to Senate President Godswill Akpabio and fellow lawmakers for the commissioning of projects in her constituency adhered to proper Senate procedures. The invitation, extended on Thursday, comes just two months after her reinstatement from suspension and coincides with the senator’s second-year milestone in office. Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that she submitted the invitation through the presiding officer, requesting it be formally read on the Senate floor, in line with parliamentary protocol. “Today, as is customary for announcements of this nature, I wrote a letter to the Senate through the presiding officer addressed to the Senate President for reading on the floor,” she stated. “I issued the invitation to ensure it wouldn’t seem like I was celebrating alone. I’m a progressive lawmaker, and despite ongoing court matters, I continue to fulfill my duties and follow proper procedures.” She added that her actions reflect a commitment to due process and respect for institutional norms, stressing that the project inaugurations and celebration of her achievements are focused on public service rather than personal recognition.

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Nnamdi Kanu Seeks Dismissal of All Charges, Calls for Immediate Release

The detained IPOB leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has filed a fresh motion at the Federal High Court in Abuja, requesting the dismissal of all charges against him and his immediate release. Dated October 30, 2025, and titled “Motion on Notice and Written Address in Support,” Kanu argued that the current charges have no legal foundation, describing them as “a nullity ab initio for want of any extant legal foundation.” Representing himself, Kanu cited Sections 1(3), 6(6)(b), and 36(12) of the 1999 Constitution, the Evidence Act 2011, and the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act 2022 to support his application. He contended that the prosecution relies on repealed or non-existent laws, such as the Customs and Excise Management Act (CEMA), repealed by the Nigeria Customs Service Act 2023, and the Terrorism Prevention (Amendment) Act 2013, repealed by the TPPA 2022. According to Kanu, using these outdated laws violates Section 36(12) of the Constitution, which bars trials for offences not defined under current law. Kanu also argued that the alleged offences were committed in Kenya, citing Section 76(1)(d)(iii) of the TPPA 2022, which requires validation by a Kenyan court for acts committed abroad. He said the lack of such validation invalidates the court’s extraterritorial jurisdiction and breaches Article 7(2) of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. Citing precedents including FRN v. Kanu (SC/CR/1361/2022), Aoko v. Fagbemi (1961) 1 All NLR 400, and FRN v. Ifegwu (2003) 15 NWLR (Pt 842) 113, Kanu maintained that any law or judicial act inconsistent with the Constitution is void, and lower courts must take judicial notice of repealed laws. He urged the court to direct the prosecution to respond strictly on points of law within three days and requested a ruling on or before November 4, 2025. Kanu emphasized that his motion raises only constitutional and legal questions, making an affidavit unnecessary.

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King Charles Strips Prince Andrew Of Title, Orders Him Out Of Royal Lodge

King Charles has stripped his brother, Prince Andrew, of his royal title and ordered him to vacate his longtime home, Royal Lodge, amid intensifying backlash over his links to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In a statement released Thursday night, Buckingham Palace said Andrew will no longer be known as “Prince Andrew” but as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor. It added that the King has “initiated a formal process to remove the style, titles and honours of Prince Andrew,” and that “formal notice has now been served to surrender the lease on Royal Lodge.” The Palace confirmed that Andrew will be relocated to a smaller residence on the Sandringham Estate, privately funded by King Charles. “These censures are deemed necessary, notwithstanding the fact that he continues to deny the allegations against him,” the Palace said, expressing solidarity with victims of “any and all forms of abuse.” Earlier this month, Andrew relinquished his remaining royal privileges, including the title Duke of York, after renewed scrutiny of his personal life following the publication of a posthumous memoir by Virginia Giuffre. In the book, Giuffre repeated claims that she was forced to have sex with Andrew three times as a teenager—allegations he has always denied. Giuffre’s family reacted to the latest news by saying she had “brought down a British prince with her truth and extraordinary courage.” Speaking on BBC Question Time, Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy described the King’s decision as “a huge development and a powerful message to victims of grooming and sexual abuse.” She added, “This was a brave and necessary step for the monarchy.” Government officials confirmed they were consulted before the move and fully supported it. The decision marks a significant escalation in the fallout from Andrew’s association with Epstein, which has long overshadowed the royal family. Recently resurfaced 2011 emails suggested Andrew remained in contact with Epstein months after claiming to have cut ties with him. Questions have also been raised about how Andrew sustains his lifestyle despite no longer being a working royal. He has lived at Royal Lodge since 2004 under a 75-year lease with the Crown Estate, having paid over £8 million upfront for renovations in lieu of rent. The Grade II-listed estate includes a chapel lodge, six-bedroom cottage, and security housing. Andrew’s ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, who reverted to her maiden name after he dropped the Duke of York title, is also expected to leave the property and make separate living arrangements. It was also revealed this week that Andrew hosted Epstein at Royal Lodge in 2006 during Princess Beatrice’s birthday party—two months after U.S. authorities issued an arrest warrant for Epstein for child sex offences. With Thursday’s announcement, the Palace appears intent on closing the most damaging chapter in recent royal history—officially ending the reign of “Prince Andrew” and leaving only Andrew Mountbatten Windsor behind.

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Adeleke Faults Tinubu Government Over Alleged Seizure Of Osun Local Government Funds

Adeleke Faults Tinubu Government Over Alleged Seizure Of Osun Local Government Funds

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of marginalising his state and withholding local government funds despite a subsisting court order directing their release. Adeleke, who made the allegation on Thursday at the South-West Stakeholders’ Dialogue held in Akure, Ondo State, said the Federal Government’s actions were politically motivated and contrary to democratic principles. The event was themed “Strengthening Democracy Through Dialogue: Assessing Progress, Charting the Future.” Represented by his deputy, Kola Adewusi, Adeleke lamented that the rule of law was being undermined in Osun, where federal power was allegedly being used to interfere in state matters. He said, “A troubling dimension was introduced earlier this year when the rule of law was replaced with the rule of the thumb. In Osun, federal authority is being exercised outside constitutional boundaries, threatening peace and intergovernmental harmony.” The governor alleged that certain security agencies had become tools in the hands of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), protecting party loyalists even when they act unlawfully. “Federal party officials openly boast of using security forces to intimidate and witch-hunt state officials. Some even declare their intention to hijack the state, whether the people voted for them or not — and they do so under security protection,” he stated. Adeleke further claimed that Osun’s local government funds were seized earlier this year without a court order, while individuals removed from office by judicial rulings were allegedly reinstated through federal influence and the backing of security operatives. He expressed disappointment that despite Tinubu being from the South-West, Osun continued to be sidelined in federal dealings. “Our olive branch for collaboration is often rejected due to political partisanship. Federal interactions with Osun have become dictated by partisan considerations rather than fairness and constitutional order,” he lamented. Adeleke urged South-West governors to rise above political divisions and work together for regional development. He praised the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission for promoting unity and proposed the creation of a circular cargo railway project across the South-West in partnership with the Federal Government. He added, “The South-West must elevate development above politics. We must adopt a collective strategy that prioritises progress and economic growth over partisan interests.”

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AU, AFRIMA Confirm January 7-11, 2026 for 9th Awards in Lagos

The African Union Commission (AUC) and the International Executive Committee of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) have officially announced the 9th edition of Africa’s global music awards will now take place between Wednesday, January 7 to Sunday, January 11, 2026, in Lagos, Nigeria. Previously scheduled for November 25–30, 2025, the awards’ date adjustment followed extensive consultations with partners, artistes, and stakeholders across Africa and the diaspora. “The African Union Commission is proud to continue its partnership with AFRIMA in celebrating Africa’s creative excellence and global influence,” said Ms. Angela Martins, Acting Director of Social Development, Culture and Sports and Head of the Culture and Sport Division, AUC. “This relationship aligns perfectly with the AU’s Cultural Policy for Africa and the AU Agenda 2063, which prioritise the creative economy as a driver of sustainable development, youth empowerment, and continental integration. The new dates for the 9th AFRIMA in January 2026 provide an exciting opportunity to further showcase the rich diversity, innovation, and unity of Africa’s music and culture to the world.” Explaining the decision, Nde Ndifonka, AFRIMA’s Regional Director for Central Africa and Cameroonian music star popularly known as Wax Dey, said the new dates in January will allow for broader participation and ensure a top-quality experience for everyone involved. “AFRIMA is not just an award show; it is Africa’s global music stage,” said Ndifonka, who is also a lawyer. “Rescheduling the 9th edition to January allows us to deliver the kind of world-class celebration that truly reflects Africa’s creative power. It also ensures that more of our stakeholders, artistes, fans, media, and partners can participate fully. This is about giving African music the grand platform it deserves.” The 9th AFRIMA, held in partnership with the African Union Commission, the Federal Government of Nigeria as the Official Host Country and Lagos State as the Official Host City, will feature a week-long lineup of music, culture, and entertainment. The continent’s biggest music festival will commence officially on Wednesday, January 7 with the exclusive Welcome Soirée for nominees, delegates, guests and international media offering a premium networking space for artistes, industry leaders, sponsors, and media professionals. On the same day, the 9th AFRIMA Diamond Showcase, a special performance platform for undiscovered African music acts, will host 15 budding talents creating an opportunity for them to connect their sounds to a larger audience and break into mainstream music success. On Thursday, January 8, the spotlight will shift to the Africa Music Business Summit (AMBS) —AFRIMA’s signature conference for thought leadership and collaboration within the African music ecosystem. Later that evening, guests will be treated to the Music Icons’ Night, a celebration of legendary figures who have shaped Africa’s music heritage. The excitement continues on Friday, January 9 with a vibrant lineup that includes community outreach visits to schools, a host city cultural tour, and a courtesy reception with the Lagos State Government. The day will close on a high note with the AFRIMA Music Village, an open air live performances, star studded concert & festival arena Saturday, January 10, will bring the energy up further at the 9th AFRIMA Nominees & Industry Party, a glamorous night dedicated to past winners, current nominees, and AFRIMA’s valued sponsors and partners. The week-long celebration will culminate on Sunday, January 11, 2026, with the live broadcast  9th AFRIMA Awards Ceremony at the Eko Convention Centre, Eko Hotels & Suites in Lagos. The grand event will include a live Red Carpet broadcast and feature electrifying performances from some of Africa’s biggest music stars. The ceremony will be aired to over 84 countries around the world.

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Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Invites Akpabio To Kogi Project Commissioning

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) appears to have reconciled with Senate President Godswill Akpabio after months of tension, as she formally invited him and other senators to attend a project commissioning ceremony in her constituency. In a letter personally signed by Akpoti-Uduaghan and read aloud by Akpabio during Thursday’s plenary, the senator invited her colleagues to the event scheduled for Sunday in Ihima, Kogi State, marking her second year in the Senate. “In marking my second-year anniversary as serving Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I wish to invite fellow Distinguished Senators to join me for projects commissioning in Kogi State,” the letter stated. The invitation noted that the event would be held at her residence on Plot 101, Jimoh Akpoti Street, Ihima, Okene, with senators traveling by air advised to use the Obajana Airstrip before proceeding by road. After reading the letter, Akpabio smiled and said, “Congratulations in advance,” drawing laughter from the chamber. The gesture marks a notable thaw in relations between the two lawmakers, following a heated dispute in February over Senate seat reallocation that led to Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension on March 6. Since her reinstatement on September 24, Akpoti-Uduaghan has gradually re-engaged in legislative activities, contributing to debates and motions on the floor. Her latest invitation to Akpabio is being seen as a significant olive branch and a step toward full reconciliation within the Senate.

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Pastor Adeboye To Lead Special Prayer for Singles, Expectant Mothers, and Their Families

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, will hold a special prayer session for singles, mature singles, expectant mothers, and their families. The announcement was made Thursday in a statement by Pastor Oladele Balogun, Special Assistant to the General Overseer, Administration, in Lagos. Pastor Adeboye said the prayer, inspired by divine guidance, will focus on unmarried youths seeking marital settlement, as well as waiting and expectant mothers and their families. Citing recent population surveys in Nigeria, he noted that singles, including mature singles, make up more than 40 per cent of the adult population, highlighting a growing group seeking marriage. He also emphasized that waiting and expectant mothers number in the millions worldwide, representing families seeking God’s blessing for children—a deeply spiritual and emotional journey. “With RCCG present in over 190 nations, these groups form an important part of the church’s fellowship, united by faith, hope, and prayer,” he said. The special prayer will take place during the November 2025 Thanksgiving Service on November 2 at The Throne of Grace, RCCG National Headquarters, Ebute-Metta, Lagos, starting at 8:00 a.m. Pastor Adeboye encouraged participants worldwide to join and invited those near Lagos to attend in person for this life-transforming spiritual encounter.

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Tinubu Approves N4 Trillion Bond to Clear GenCo Debts and Boost Nigeria’s Power Supply

Nigeria’s persistent power supply problems may soon be alleviated following new government interventions aimed at revitalizing the sector. Speaking at the Nigeria Energy Summit in Lagos, Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu revealed that President Bola Tinubu has approved a N4 trillion bond to settle verified debts owed to Generation Companies (GenCos) and gas suppliers. He added that a targeted subsidy framework is being developed to protect vulnerable households while guiding the sector toward full commercialization. Adelabu said the government is deepening power sector commercialization to improve revenue, liquidity, and investor confidence. “Through tariff reforms introducing cost-reflective rates for select consumers, supply reliability has improved, industrial energy costs have decreased, and sector revenue rose by 70 per cent to ₦1.7 trillion in 2024. Revenue is projected to exceed ₦2 trillion in 2025,” he stated. The Minister highlighted that the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) and State Regulatory Commissions are working closely to monitor performance and enforce improvements across utilities. Challenges remain, including under-capitalization among several Distribution Companies (DisCos) and a heavy debt burden that has affected operational efficiency and service delivery. To address this, the government plans to introduce minimum capital adequacy requirements during license renewals to strengthen the financial stability and liquidity of the utilities. On infrastructure development, Adelabu said the Federal Government has launched programs to expand and modernize the national grid. “Under Phase Zero of the Presidential Power Initiative (PPI), transmission capacity has been enhanced, grid stability improved, and overall system reliability strengthened, achieving over 700MW of additional transmission capacity,” he added. The initiatives are aimed at creating a reliable, financially sustainable, and commercially viable power sector, positioning Nigeria for long-term energy stability.

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